How to teach fractions

Grade 1 to Grade 6

A fraction shows part of a whole. Children first name fractions from shaded shapes, then compare and operate on them.

How to teach it

1. Start with shaded shapes so part-whole is visual.
2. Name fractions, then compare ones with the same denominator.
3. Introduce equivalent fractions with diagrams.
4. Only then add, subtract and simplify.

Common mistakes

• Thinking a bigger denominator means a bigger fraction.
• Adding denominators when adding fractions.
• Not relating fractions to division.